A place to post creative and constructive comments, news and information about Metis. Especially welcome are achievements, success stories, cultural descriptions and anything that can help move Metis forward. No naysayers please, there are plenty of other places that negative nellies can go and post their stuff. Here we invite the sharing of things that enhance the lives of individual Metis, their children, families and communities.

Of course the tough issues need to be addressed too and are posted here as well.

May 16, 2013Alberta government and Metis settlements celebrate new development agreement

Opportunities for Alberta’s Metis to more fully enjoy the benefits of resource development underscore a new agreement between the Metis Settlements General Council and Alberta government.

“Responsible energy development benefits all Canadians,” said Energy Minister Ken Hughes. “With this co-management agreement in place, Alberta’s Metis settlements will have greater control over development on their lands and be able to better share in the benefits.”

Under the new co-management agreement, Metis Settlements will have the authority to require companies bidding on resource rights beneath settlement lands to submit benefits proposals in areas such as local employment, training or infrastructure improvements. The benefits proposals will be submitted to the settlement council as part of a final selection process. Alternatively, a company wholly owned by a settlement council may choose to purchase a right under its land at a pre-set price.

“Today highlights another major step forward in making sure Metis Settlements are successful for the long-term. Our government is working with Aboriginal communities to ensure they have economic opportunities and the ability to share in Alberta’s success. This announcement is a reflection of that commitment,” said Aboriginal Relations Minister Robin Campbell.

"The Metis Settlements General Council is excited about the co-management agreement," said Randy Hardy, Council President. "The potential revenues and economic opportunities generated by this agreement are an essential component to the long term sustainability of the Settlements. This signing marks yet another historic day in the continuing partnership between the Government of Alberta and the Metis Settlements.”

Alberta is the only Canadian province with a land base dedicated specifically to Metis. There are eight settlements in northern Alberta representing a land area of just over a half million hectares. The first rights under settlement lands will be made available for bidding at the June 3 bi-weekly sale.

Our government was elected to keep building Alberta, to live within its means and to fight to open new markets for Alberta’s resources. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.